Volunteering as a school advocate is a rewarding experience for you and the local community.

You will join a family of people who share the same vision, to provide children with the best possible learning environment and ensure they love, learn, live as global citizens in an ever-changing world.

Your influence in school governance will help to drive school improvement and ensure a high-quality education for children in our community.

Who can become a school advocate?

If you are aged 18 and over and not a Rivers member of staff, then you can be an advocate.

Our schools are diverse and rich in culture, we aim for our advocates to reflect this.

There is no experience or formal training required to become an advocate and you don’t need in-depth knowledge of education. Induction and safeguarding training will be given.

Volunteers who accept an advocate role will need an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. 

Advocacy roles & responsibilities

• Headteacher Advocate (x1 per school) (cannot be a current stakeholder)
  To seek assurance that the Head is listened to, supported and challenged.
• Pupil Experience Advocate (minimum of x 2 per school)
  To seek assurance that pupils are listened to, feel safe in school and are successful learners.
• Community Advocate (minimum of x2 per school)
  To seek assurance that the school engages positively with its key stakeholders and local community.
• Christian Distinctiveness Advocate (minimum of x2 per school - for Church schools only)
  To seek assurance that the Christian vision and values are at the heart of everything that the school does.

What does being an advocate involve?

Advocates work in partnership with school leaders and trustees to ensure schools are offering the best education and supporting pupils and staff.

Advocates are expected to visit the school and meet with pupils, staff and the school community to look at information, evidence progress and listen to views. Findings are then discussed with school leaders and trustees. 

There is a minimum expectation regarding time commitment, but the responsibility of making a difference is extremely rewarding.

Advocates are required to visit the school once a term (3 visits), attend one or two follow-up meetings each term (in person or virtually) and attend an annual governance day (in-person).

Become a school advocate

If you can give your time, care and attention to make a huge difference in the future of children and your community, then we would love to hear from you.

Contact your local Rivers school to obtain an advocate application form or register your interest using the form below.